Portugal vs. Wales

Two European gems with their own treasures to discover – Wales and Portugal

A fast-growing tourist destination, the country of Wales is rooted in medieval history complete with castles and monuments that tell of a glorious past. Aside from its heritage, Wales is noted for its picture perfect views comprising mountains, bays and a vast countryside with villages and towns that take you back in time.

Portugal invariably feature in the travel itinerary. A country that offers splendid architecture, rich history and a unique ethos with distinct cultural milieus to their patrons.

Portugal

Lisbon

The capital of Portugal, Lisbon is a hill city that winds its way upwards in a coterie of tram tracks through a series of hills overlooking the Tagus River. Expect to see a number of rustic shopping streets, elegant bridgeways, Gothic cathedrals and vibrant neighbourhoods – all abound in the traditional fado music of Portugal. If you want a history 101 on the city, hop into the Tram No. 28 which will take you through Lisbon’s important historical attractions, gardens and alleys. Also ensure that you visit the Alfama district, the oldest quarter in the city distinctive for its Moorish leanings and home to the grand St. George’s Castle. Portugal’s rich maritime history is also reflected in the museums paying homage to its heydays as the strongest naval power in Europe (once upon a time…)

 Porto

The namesake behind the famous port wine, Porto is nestled along the hills that stand watch over the Douro River in northern Portugal. The laidback air of Porto is best envisioned in its charming Ribiera pedestrian district – bustling with riverside cafes, live music bars, street vendors and restaurants. Do visit the Ponte Dom Luis, an imposing double-deck arch bridge that connects Vila Nova de Gaia with Porto. A visit to the bridge is important to get to Vila Nova de Gaia, since it is home to some rich port wine cellars. That’s always a visit worth making.

How to Get There

There are several airlines that operate between India and Portugal – dependent, of course, upon the departure and arrival cities in both countries. Carriers like Lufthansa, Air India, Aeroflot, Emirates, British Airways and Swiss Airlines will get you there.

Book Your Flight to Lisbon

Wales

Cardiff

The capital city of Wales in the United Kingdom, Cardiff is a port city with a bustling bay. Cardiff Bay is a regenerated project created by the Cardiff Barrage in South Cardiff. It is the hub of activity with restaurants, bars, the Roald Dahl Plass, which is open amphitheatre style plaza and Techniquest, an educational science and discovery centre and planetarium. While in Cardiff, also visit St. Fagans National History Museum depicting the social history of Wales, the Gothic style Cardiff Castle built on the remains of Norman and Roman ruins and the Anglican Llandaff Cathedral built in the 12th century. For some fun, head to Wales Millennium Centre, an arts centre located in the Cardiff Bay area and Mermaid Bay, a boardwalk on the waterfront with shopping, dining and recreational activities.

How To Get There

Major international airlines including Air France, Jet Airways, KML and British Airways operate via flights from India to Cardiff.

Book Your Flight to Cardiff                                                                

Destination	Cardiff, Wales	Lisbon, Portugal
Hotels (centrally located)	Rs. 5,585 per night (Standard room at Park Inn by Radisson Cardiff City Centre) Rs. 7,190 per night (Superior room at Park Plaza Cardiff Hotel) Rs. 8,805 (Standard King room at St. David's Hotel & Spa Cardiff )	Rs. 4797 (per night at the Hotel 3K Barcelona) Rs. 8245 (per night at the Clarion Suites Lisbon Hotel) Rs. 8549 (per night at the Radisson Blu Hotel Lisbon)
Meals (breakfast, lunch & dinner without alcohol)	Rs. 4,000 per day	Rs. 3200 per day
Local Transportation (public bus)	Rs. 180 per ticket	Rs. 112 per ticket
Miscellaneous	Rs. 3,000 per day	Rs. 2300 per day

*All prices are approximate and subject to change.

Both countries pack a mean punch when it comes to sightseeing, recreational and cultural experiences. It all comes down to this – which country tugs at your heart (not to mention your purse strings!) more? Depending on that, you can decide which useful phrases you want to start practicing: Wales or Portugal.

Godspeed making that decision!